I’m finishing a kitchen remodel and about to paint newly installed drywall. It was just sanded down.
I’ve used oil based paints on trim and I know that it is very durable. The painting guide by FHB has article that mentions kitchens and bathrooms are often painted with oil based paint.
Yet I don’t see many people doing this. I’m wondering if it’s best to stick with a latex primer and topcoat or go buy some oil based stuff. Is it really that far out there to use oil based paints on interior kitchen walls?
Replies
If there is a tile splash or other washable product on the walls behind the countertop; then a premium quality latex will work fine. If the walls are exposed to splattered sauces or cooking oil; then an oil based paint is probably better. It all depends on how often you're going to scrub the walls down.
When I was apprenticing in the 90’s we painted all kitchens and bathrooms in semi-gloss oil. Then latex kitchen and bath paint came out and California only allowed us to buy quarts of oil based paint. After that everything went latex. The latex paints are more durable and easier to clean now. Also oil based finishes are going to be. off gassing for months. I’d just use latex.
I generally agree with the second comment. Get a good-/higher-quality latex and at least a satin finish (or semi-gloss) and you should be fine. I only use oil on the exterior if I am going over wood, where I feel that the oil is better for preserving the wood longer term.